Solar energy production makes Orlando, FL, even happier

The state of solar in Orlando

Florida lives up to its name as the Sunshine State. Cities such as Orlando receive 233 days of sunshine per year compared to the national average of 205.^*BestPlaces.net, Orlando, Florida Climate, February 2021.

How much solar energy does Orlando produce?

According to the "Shining Cities 2020" project of the Environment America Research & Policy Center, Orlando is the 32nd overall city for solar-energy friendliness. The rankings evaluate cities' solar PV per capita and current solar capacity. Currently, Orlando generates 34.87 watts of solar PV per person, placing it slightly ahead of New York City and Columbia, SC. The city has 9.96 MW solar of PV installed.

What are the advantages of going solar in Orlando?

Orlando has a long-term commitment to solar power. The city aims to transition to 100% clean energy by 2050. Investments in local infrastructure are expected to reduce the cost of electricity, greenhouse gas emissions, and the city's overall carbon footprint.

Solar panels begin to reduce your energy usage from the grid immediately after activation, which is useful considering that Floridians pay 13% more than the national average on their monthly electric bills.^*SmartAsset, The Cost of Living in Florida, May 2019. The Orlando Utilities Commission will even credit your electric bill for any unused energy through a process called net metering.^*The availability of net metering varies by location and is subject to change. You can also visit the dsireusa.org website for detailed solar policy information.

Net metering programs let you send your excess electricity back to your utility company's grid. The electric company will then compensate you through credits on your electric bill that can offset usage from the grid at night.

How much does solar cost in Orlando?

The cost of a home solar system can vary, even in the same city, due to a range of factors, including the:

• Local weather

• Homeowner's energy needs

• Quality of the solar system's panels and parts

• Angle of the roof

• Roof type

To help you understand the price of going solar in your area, we've analyzed SunPower price quotes, as well as quotes gathered by a third-party source,^*Local Installers, Wood Mackenzie, Solar Reviews, Energy Sage, National Renewable Energy Laboratory for thousands of homeowners across the country.

In Orlando, we found that the cost of purchasing a 5 kW system solar ranges from $12,850 to $29,450, or in other words, from $2.57 to $5.89 per watt. And that's before considering the benefits of any available tax credits or incentives.

One of those incentives is the 26% Federal Investment Tax Credit.^*Incentives, rebates, and tax credits vary and are subject to change. SunPower does not warrant, guarantee or otherwise advise its customers about specific tax outcomes or their ability to qualify for local incentives. Consult your tax advisor regarding the solar tax credit and how it applies to your specific circumstances. Your SunPower Dealer can help you determine if you qualify for other local incentives. Please visit the dsireusa.org website for detailed solar policy information Be sure to talk to a local solar expert to learn how state and local solar tax breaks, rebates, and incentives may lead to significant savings. These can make going solar an attractive investment for Orlando residents.

You'll also benefit from two state mandated tax exemptions. First, the added value of the solar panels is 100% exempt when it comes to paying property tax, leading to an average savings of $15,000. Second, the cost of your solar equipment is exempt from Florida's 6% sales tax.

Solar panels will pay for themselves over the long-term in energy savings. Once you reach that break-even point, those savings are yours to keep. Experts estimate installing a 5.7 kW system will save you tens of thousands of dollars over 25 years. The number may be even higher if you use less electricity than your solar panels produce and are able to receive credits through net metering.

What's the best way to go solar in Orlando?

At SunPower, we're here to make your transition to solar power safe, simple, and affordable. For more than 35 years, we've provided the highest quality solar solutions available. Our high-efficiency solar cells and friendly staff are ready to help you whenever and wherever you need it.

Get started by checking out the SunPower Design Studio. This intuitive platform lets you create the perfect solar system for your property. That way, you can see what solar looks like on your home and see how much you can save before even contacting us.

We also have an online estimate tool to help you get a ballpark figure of the price. Just fill out this short online form, and we will get back to you in no time. The results will even show you how much you can save with each of our solar panel models.

Get started now by requesting your consultation. We'll follow-up with a quick call to schedule a time. You're also welcome to call us directly at (800) 786-7693.